Social Studies provides a forum for students to explore human
civilization through many lenses, including history, culture, geography
and economics. With foci ranging from ancient civilizations to
European, Asian and Middle Eastern medieval cultures to the state of
New Jersey, studies often cross disciplines to foster student
understanding. The study of the English Renaissance in the seventh
grade provides the foundation for an exciting cross-disciplinary study
and student performance of a Shakespeare play. In the fifth and sixth
grade, students examine different legal codes beginning with the Romans
and continuing through the Magna Carta. In exploring the causes of the
American Revolution during the eighth grade, students delve extensively
into several of America's Founding Documents, including The Declaration
of Independence (a Core Work), The Articles of Confederation, and The
Constitution. Knowledge of these works helps to inform students'
concepts of citizenship, discussed in Social Studies class and beyond.
Each year, students further develop their research skills through one
or more in-depth research projects. Frequent sessions with the
librarian and research in class help students learn to use a wide range
of reference materials well. Students are exposed to the use of both
primary and secondary source documents as they prepare to synthesize
their findings and to present their results, through a focused research
paper or a PowerPoint presentation, for example. In November of their
eighth grade year, students travel to Colonial Williamsburg for four
days to conduct on-site research for their formal research papers.
Study skills, particularly organizational and note-taking strategies,
are emphasized throughout the Middle School years.
